Skirt Steak Recipe: Skirt steak is a go-to choice for those who love a juicy, tender, and flavorful steak. This cut is packed with beefy richness and, when cooked properly, delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Whether you’re grilling for a summer BBQ or pan-searing for a quick weeknight dinner, skirt steak is an easy and satisfying meal.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to prepare, cook, and serve this delicious steak.
What is Skirt Steak?
Skirt steak is a long, thin cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow. It has a loose grain and a lot of marbling, making it incredibly flavorful. It is often compared to flank steak, but skirt steak has a more intense beefy flavor and a slightly chewier texture.
Skirt Steak vs. Flank Steak
Many people confuse skirt steak with flank steak, but they have some key differences:
- Skirt steak is more flavorful and has more marbling, making it juicier.
- Flank steak is leaner and has a firmer texture.
- Skirt steak is best cooked quickly over high heat, while flank steak can handle longer cooking times.
How to Choose the Best Skirt Steak
When buying skirt steak, look for:
Bright red color – Fresh skirt steak should have a vibrant red hue.
Good marbling – Fat running through the meat enhances flavor and tenderness.
Firm texture – The steak should feel firm but not too tough.
Even thickness – Helps with uniform cooking.
For the best quality, try to get USDA Prime or Choice grade meat. Also, ask your butcher for outside skirt steak, which is more tender than the inside cut.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you need to make a delicious skirt steak:
Main Ingredients
- 1 to 1.5 lbs skirt steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Marinade (Optional)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp honey
How to Prepare Skirt Steak
1. Trim Excess Fat
Some skirt steaks come with a thick membrane or extra fat. Use a sharp knife to trim off any tough, chewy pieces.
2. Marinate for Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
Skirt steak absorbs flavors well, so marinating can enhance its taste and tenderness.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and honey.
- Place the steak in a ziplock bag and pour in the marinade.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for the best results, overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring to Room Temperature
Before cooking, remove the steak from the fridge 30 minutes in advance. This helps it cook evenly.
Different Cooking Methods for Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is best cooked quickly at high temperatures to keep it juicy. Here are the best methods:
Grilling
+ Heat the grill to high heat (450°F-500°F).
+ Cook for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Pan-Searing
+ Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat with a bit of oil.
+ Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.
Broiling
Set the oven to broil on high.
Place the steak on a rack 4-5 inches from the heat and broil for 3-4 minutes per side.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Skirt Steak
- Preheat your grill, pan, or oven broiler to high heat.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to get a great sear.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices.
- Cook on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side (or until desired doneness).
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender texture.
How to Get the Perfect Sear
A great sear is what gives skirt steak that delicious, caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to achieve it:
Use high heat – Whether grilling or pan-searing, make sure your surface is very hot before placing the steak.
Pat the steak dry – Excess moisture prevents a good crust from forming. Use paper towels to blot the steak dry before seasoning.
Don’t move the steak too soon – Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a golden-brown crust.
Use a cast-iron skillet – If pan-searing, cast iron retains heat well and helps with even cooking.
How Long to Cook Skirt Steak
The ideal cook time depends on your preferred level of doneness. Here’s a quick guide:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Cook Time Per Side |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120-125°F (49-52°C) | 1-2 minutes |
| Medium Rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) | 2-3 minutes |
| Medium | 140-145°F (60-63°C) | 3-4 minutes |
| Medium Well | 150-155°F (65-68°C) | 4-5 minutes |
| Well Done | 160°F+ (71°C+) | 5+ minutes |
Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, as skirt steak cooks quickly.
Letting the Steak Rest
One of the most important steps in cooking steak is letting it rest before slicing.
Why is resting important?
- When you cook steak, the juices get pushed to the center. Resting allows them to redistribute evenly.
- If you cut into the steak immediately, all the juices will run out, making it dry.
Let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
How to Slice Skirt Steak Properly
Skirt steak has a distinct grain (muscle fibers running in one direction). Cutting it against the grain ensures tenderness.
How to slice correctly:
- Identify the grain – The lines on the steak show the muscle direction.
- Use a sharp knife and cut perpendicular to the grain.
- Slice thinly at an angle for the most tender bites.
Serving Suggestions
Skirt steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious options:
Fresh Sides:
- Grilled vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, peppers)
- Garden salad with a light vinaigrette
- Avocado salsa or guacamole
Carby Companions:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Warm tortillas for tacos or fajitas
- Rice or quinoa
Sauce Pairings:
- Classic chimichurri sauce (garlic, parsley, olive oil, vinegar)
- Garlic butter drizzle
- Spicy chipotle crema
Best Skirt Steak Marinade Options
Marinades can enhance the flavor and tenderness of your steak. Here are three delicious options:
1. Classic Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
2. Chimichurri Sauce
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
3. Asian-Inspired Marinade
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for the best flavor.
Tips for Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep them fresh:
Storage:
- Let the steak cool completely before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a vacuum-sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating without drying out:
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side.
- Oven: Wrap in foil and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Use short bursts at 50% power to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion and Final Tips
Cooking skirt steak is simple when you follow the right steps. Remember these key points:
+ Choose high-quality meat with good marbling.
+ Marinate for extra flavor and tenderness.
+ Cook quickly over high heat to avoid toughness.
+ Rest and slice against the grain for the best texture.
With this guide, you’ll be able to make perfectly cooked skirt steak every time. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs About Skirt Steak Recipe
1. What is skirt steak?
Skirt steak is a long, thin cut of beef known for its rich, beefy flavor. It comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow and has a coarse texture, making it perfect for marinating and quick cooking.
2. How do you tenderize skirt steak?
Since skirt steak is naturally tough, marinating it with acidic ingredients like lime juice or vinegar helps break down the fibers. Also, slicing it against the grain after cooking ensures maximum tenderness.
3. What’s the best way to cook skirt steak?
Skirt steak is best cooked quickly over high heat—whether on the grill, stovetop, or broiler. A sear for 2-3 minutes per side results in a perfect medium-rare doneness.
4. How long should I marinate skirt steak?
For the best flavor, marinate skirt steak for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Avoid over-marinating beyond 24 hours, as it can alter the texture.
5. Can I cook skirt steak without a grill?
Yes! A cast-iron skillet or grill pan on the stovetop works just as well. Simply heat the pan until smoking hot, then cook the steak for a couple of minutes on each side.
6. What are the best side dishes for skirt steak?
Skirt steak pairs well with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, chimichurri sauce, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. You can also use it in tacos, fajitas, or steak sandwiches.
7. How should I store and reheat skirt steak?
Store leftover skirt steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid drying it out.
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